New York City is notorious for angry drivers. As a motorist in the city, you know firsthand the dangers of navigating the roadways alongside aggressive drivers. At some point within the last year, you may have experienced feelings of anger or rage while behind the wheel.
When angry motorists display hazardous driving behaviors, it puts others’ lives in danger. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 56% of deadly car accidents over a five-year period were caused by aggressive driving behaviors. If you know how to spot the signs of road rage, you can decrease the risk of becoming involved in a fatal car accident.
What to look for
According to the Insurance Information Institute, the following are signs of aggressive driving:
- Racing other vehicles or speeding
- Blocking other vehicles from changing lanes
- Changing lanes excessively or cutting off other vehicles
- Tailgating or following vehicles too closely
- Failing to yield to other vehicles right of way, pedestrians or traffic signals
- Honking excessively and/or yelling at other drivers
Some cases of road rage may escalate to the point where drivers may inflict physical harm on others. Angry drivers may exit their vehicles and approach others with the intent to start an altercation. Furthermore, aggressive drivers may hit or crash into other vehicles.
What should you do
When threatened by another driver, many people react by defending themselves or competing with the angry motorist. While you may feel inclined to get involved, law officers encourage you to avoid doing so. Instead, you should contact law enforcement and make them aware of the situation at hand.
